Afghan National Security Forces Getting bigger, stronger, better prepared -- every day!

n NATO reaffirms Afghan commitment n ANSF, ISAF defeat IEDs together n PRT Meymaneh in action n ISAF Docs provide for long-term care In this month’s Mirror July 2007

4 NATO & HQ ISAF ANA soldiers in training. n NATO reaffirms commitment Cover Photo by Sgt. Ruud Mol n Conference concludes ANSF ready to 5 Commemorations react ...... turn to page 8. n Marking D-Day and more 6 RC-West n DCOM Stability visits Farah 11 ANA ops 7 n ANP scores victory in n Gen. Satta visits PRT n ANP repels attack on town 8 ANA ready n 12 RC-Capital Camp Zafar prepares troops n Sharing cultures 9 Security shura n MEDEVAC ex, celebrations n Women’s roundtable in Farah 13 RC-North 10 ANSF focus n Meymaneh donates blood n ANSF, ISAF train for IEDs n New CC for PRT

Raising the cup

Macedonian mid fielder Goran Boleski kisses the cup after his team won HQ ISAF’s football final. An elated team-mate and team captain Elvis Todorvski looks on. Photo by Sgt. Ruud Mol For more on the championship ..... turn to page 22.

2 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 Contents 14 RC-South n NAMSA improves life at KAF The ISAF Mirror is a HQ ISAF Public Information product. Articles, where possible, have been kept in their origi- 15 RAF aids nomads nal form. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily n Humanitarian help for Kuchis reflect official NATO, JFC HQ Brunssum or ISAF policy. Photo credits are attrib- n Victory for Afghan farmers uted to the authors of the submission, unless otherwise stated. Submissions can be e-mailed to: 16 A magical effect pressoffice@isaf-hq..int n Aussie, Afghan engineers team up Articles should be in MS Word format (Arial), photos should be at least 4.5cm 17 Keeping cargo rollin’ and 300 dpi resolution. The ISAF Mir- ror is published monthly and aims to n Combined team moves it at Qalat be available by the first Friday of the month. n ISAF, ANSF open new checkpoint For more information, please call the editor at 0799 511230. 18 RC-East The electronic version of this magazine can be downloaded online at: n ISAF docs provide for the long term www.nato.int/isaf

19 A good dam job EDITORIAL STAFF n PRT repairs Band-e-Sultan Dam Lieutenant Colonel Maria Carl n Bambakot flourishes due to aid Chief, Public Information Technical Sgt. James Fisher 20 RC-East update Editor n Extremists try to mortar hospital Sgt. Ruud Mol n Polish take lead in Uruzgan BG Photographer 21 RC-East ops n Village elders banish n ANSF, ISAF repel attack A security Back detail ensures n Extremists defeated in Ghazni workers from the 32nd n Bagram rocketed Engineer cover Regiment can complete work on the 22 Compass Points Red Circle n bridge bypass FYROM takes football crown in . Photo by Sgt. Ruud Mol

3 NATO and HQ ISAF D-Day

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines from more than eight NATO countries stand tall during a com- memoration of D-Day -- the Allied invasion of Europe June 6, 1944. The invasion and Battle of Nor- mandy were critical to the eventual Allied victory in World War II. Estimates put total casualty fig- ures for the invasion at more than 17,000 killed, wounded, missing and captured. Photo by Sgt. Ruud Mol

countries volunteered to send additional Extraordinary NATO reaffirms mentoring and liaison teams. “We are not there yet,” De Hoop Schef- fer told reporters. “We do need more train- Conference commitment to ing teams to keep up the pace.” Ministers also discussed specific meas- concludes ures to reduce casualties among civilians as a result of NATO’s actions. NATO staff reports Defence ministers from 26 NATO This includes strict implementation of The Extraordinary Conference of States countries and the 11 non-NATO countries rules of engagement, better coordination Parties to the Treaty on Conventional supporting NATO’s mission in Afghani- with US-led forces, timely investigations Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) requested stan reaffirmed their determination to stay of incidents, as well as post-humanitarian by the Russian Federation concluded June the course in Afghanistan at a meeting in relief funds for families and communities 15. This conference took place in Vienna Brussels June 15. that have been affected by NATO actions. from June 11 through 15. NATO’s mission was the focus of the “But I say once again, NATO-ISAF does The 22 members of the North Atlantic second day of a NATO Defence Ministers not indiscriminately kill people. That’s what Alliance, who are States Parties to the treaty meeting, with the Afghan Defence Minis- the Taliban does, roadside bombs, suicide considered the Russian Federation’s stated ter, Abdul Rahim Wardak, and representa- bombers, they make by far the most civilian security concerns, which were the basis tives of non-NATO troop-contributing casualties,” stressed the NATO Secretary for requesting the conference and have countries taking part. General. “We do everything to prevent that suggested a positive and constructive way “With your support and help Afghani- from happening.” forward in their proposal for a final docu- stan has been delivered from the ashes of “The bottom line is this: 37 NATO- ment. destruction, tyranny and decades of civil ISAF countries will stay the course,” he The participating allies reaffirmed the war,” said Wardak, “Now we have hope for added, “For all of us Afghanistan is really alliance’s commitment to the CFE regime a bright future.” that long-term commitment.” as expressed by heads of state and govern- No moral equivalency The Secretary General also stressed that ment at the NATO Riga Summit They re- The need to do more to train and equip there was a need to step up civil and mili- gret that not agreeing on a final document the was stressed, tary cooperation in support of Afghan re- and urge the Russian Federation to engage and NATO Secretary General Jaap de construction. in continuing dialogue . Hoop Scheffer told reporters a number of

4 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 News at press time NATO & HQ

Honours and celebrations HQ ISAF took part in several celebrations in May and June. In addition to NATO’s commemoration of D-Day, U.S. troops at the HQ celebrated Memorial Day May 28 and the U.S. Army’s Birthday June 14, celebrating 232 years of service since its inception during the American War for Independence in 1775. (Left) A joint colour guard present the colours during the Memorial Day commemora- tion. (Above) Commander of ISAF General Dan McNeill (centre) and Lance Derek Jabben and Specialist Charlene Carter lay a wreath in tribute to their fallen comrades. Below, McNeill, the oldest soldier at ISAF, cuts a birthday cake with the youngest soldier, Specialist Victor Cordero, in keeping with Army tradition for the event.

5 Regional Command West

ISAF’s Deputy Commander for Stability, General Garry Robison, meets with members of the provincial council during his recent visit to Farah in Regional Command-West. DCOM Stability visits Farah people, officials Story and photo by Gina Gillespie capacity. Take advantage of the interna- the PRTs and more importantly from the PRT Farah tional community’s forte, but as soon as Education Ministry. It is not for us to do Extending governance to the people possible, say thank you, we can do things this. It is developing the ministry’s capacity was the theme behind DCOM Stability’s for ourselves. That is what the internation- to get out and help in the provinces that is recent visit to Farah City. Major Gen- al community wants as well,” Robison said. so important,” Robison said. eral Garry Robison, deputy commander The General gave four reasons for his At the end of the tour, Robison Stability for ISAF, paid a first-time visit visit to Farah: stopped to shake hands with the children to in an effort to see the n To visit PRT Farah since he is re- in the street, and was surprised at their area’s issues first-hand instead of from a sponsible for PRTs across the country ability to speak English. headquarters-only perspective. n To provide an opportunity for his “The most precious resource that Farah Muhammad Suleman Kakar, a senior colleagues in government to meet the peo- province has is in the brain power of its advisor from the Ministry of Education, ple and discuss the issues face to face children,” said PRT Farah’s Commander and Mr. Mashal from the Ministry of n To ensure that those who work at Frank Hughlett. Rural Rehabilitation and Development in headquarters expand their perspective to Kabul accompanied the general. the rural level DCOM Stability visited Farah City’s n A desire to see as much of Afghani- “I sense an opti- new Education Centre, the Women’s Af- stan as possible during his tour of duty mism from the peo- fairs Department, the new courthouse, The importance of education was and the Agricultural High School. A key stressed by the decision to have Suleman ple to be able to message the general passed to each depart- Kakar accompany the general to Farah. achieve things by ment was the importance of capacity “The importance of education is building. well understood and the international themselves ... I think “I sense an optimism from the people community realizes that it is by provid- it is key to develop to be able to achieve things by themselves. ing education to your children that the your own capacity,” We have no right to be telling you what we next generation of this great country will think is important. prosper and blossom. There is a commit- --Major General Garry Robison “I think it is key to develop your own ment by the international community, by 6 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 RC(W) RC-West commander tours Chaghcharan

Regional Command-West Commander Brigadier General Antonio Satta (centre) and Provincial Reconstruction Team in Ghowr, Commander Colonel Dalius Polekauskas (right) tour the area outside of PRT Chagcharan during his recent visit to the area. RC-West staff reports of the people in the region, especially of Chaghcharan – PRT in Chaghcharan was Ghowr development those living in remote areas. visited by the commander of Regional The general said that the extremely Command West Brigadier General Anto- The Lithuanian government, poor region is getting a great effort from nio Satta with a delegation, including the which funds PRT Chaghcha- the PRT. incoming commander Brigadier General ran, tripled allocations for coop- “I believe the work done by the Fausto Macor. A change-of-command erative development projects in Lithuanian-led PRT and members from ceremony is slated for July. Satta and his its partner countries is outstanding. As Ghowr: delegation met with the PRT-5 Com- the Ghowr province is the most poverty- mander Colonel Dalius Polekauskas, Chief n More than 4 million Litas stricken throughout Afghanistan, it is in of Staff Lt. Colonel Darius Vaicikauskas, (about 1.15 million Euro) in 2007 need of extra support. We try to attract as Assistant Head of Special Mission Tomas many non-governmental organisations as Urbonas, and other officers responsible cial authorities and attitude of the locals possible to such regions in order to facili- for coordination of other operation areas. towards the PRT. tate development projects,” Satta said. The visit was done for the purpose of Lithuania is responsible for reconstruc- This year the Lithuanian government coordination, addressing the PRT-5 tion of the Ghowr province, one of the tripled allocations for the Ghowr coop- operation, projects and issues of provin- poorest provinces in Afghanistan. Each erative development projects to 4 million cial development, security, and stability sector, including education, public health, Litas (about 1.15 million Euro). It has also ensurement. security, development of administrative attempted to raise funds of other donors The guests familiarized themselves with competencies, economic expansion, or any in the province. The PRT was the first to the priority areas of the PRT-5 operation other, demands a lot of effort. The strenu- send a project-based application to receive and special mission development projects ous work goes toward helping the provin- financing from the European Commission and financing. Satta was interested in cial government acquire confidence of its Fund. cooperation of the PRT-5 and provin- citizens and to improve living conditions 7 RC(W) ANA becomes ready to react at Camp Zafar Story by Warrant Officer Gaetano Tuoro and the ANA is trying to accomplish through Grasso explained, because it is important photos by G Zaccario training here included a recent command to have cooperation, coordination, and to RC – WEST Public Information Office post exercise. build synergy. CAMP ZAFAR -- It is here that the The ANA’s 207th Corps, supported by “They are learning everyday new tech- Afghan National Army is developing its joint and combined forces, commenced niques of the way they need to operate in capabilities to achieve the task that the Af- offensive operations in the “enemy denial” order to improve their effectiveness. They ghan nation has entrusted to it: to ensure area of operations. This was exercised to are learning how to do the cross boundary a safe a secure environment and to defend eliminate or capture insurgent forces in operation, and they are learning how to the fatherland from enemies. order to restore freedom of movement on work in their own tactical operation centre It is also here that the Afghan National the ring road and to restore the district to better,” Grasso said. Army is training its own soldiers and that Afghan Governmental Control. ANA recruits are pleased with the a modern and technological Army is be- Upon completion of offensive drills, progress and the opportunity to better ing built up. Comparable professionalism the 207th conducted civil-military opera- their country and secure its future, accord- with ISAF, the use of modern weapons tions throughout the restored province ing to soldiers at the camp. In the army, and equipment, and increased capability until May 26. the soldiers said, the youth of Afghanistan in decision-making and organization are “The purpose of the exercise was dou- can satisfy their desires by participating in targets of the ANA, according to Major ble: to practice short-notice orders writing an active role for a modern Afghanistan. General Abdul Wahab Walizadah, a com- procedures using the deliberate military “I joined the Army because of the op- mander here. decision making process in the production portunity to help and serve the people in “I’m optimistic about the future of of separate corps and brigade ppera- our country and to ensure their security,” ANA, because everyday it grows stronger. tions orders; and to familiarize corps and said an ANA officer from the 207th. We have better training and reforms and brigade staffs with support and coordina- “We all expect security be ensured in our the soldiers are very hard working. In ad- tion requirements necessary for operating country, so we can lead a comfortable and dition, they are very proud to serve in the in the areas where insurgents frequently safe life. And the national army has a clear Army and know what to do in order to be transit,” said Lt. Colonel V Grasso, the purpose: it allows all the ethnic groups to accepted by the authorities and popula- chief of staff for the Italian Operational serve alongside each other in support of tion,” the general said. “Therefore, in the Mentoring Liaison Team. The OMLT is the people of Afghanistan. There are no near future, the ANA will provide good assigned to these ANA units in the area. barriers to ethnic diversity, language and benefits for the people of this land.” This part of exercise is to improve the culture here.” Recent events that exemplified what cooperation between ISAF and the ANA,

Afghan National Army soldiers train on the obstacle course at Camp Zafar recently. 8 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 RC(W) Security shura in Delaram Story by Gina Gillespie PRT Farah Improving security is a top priority for Farah governor Mawlawi Mohideen Baluch. It is so important to him that he recently left Farah city to attend a security shura in Farah province’s newest district of Delaram. Abdul Qadir Daqiq Golestani, presi- dent of the Provincial Council, stood by his side at the shura, along with PRT Farah Commander Frank Hughlett. Together they met village elders from Bakwa, Bala Baluk, Golestan and Delaram. These districts experience frequent Taliban at- tacks, adversely affecting any attempts at First-ever women’s reconstruction. Governor Baluch’s speech to the shura focused on three areas: asking the villagers rountable at Farah to take responsibility for security in their Story by Gina Gillespie preserves to sell at the bazaar. Fifteen- districts; working with the government PRT Farah year-old Rasma spoke for the younger to get rid of the Taliban; and supporting The time was noon. The place was generation, suggesting an internet café reconstruction. PRT Farah. The event was the first-ever for women. The women were asked to Religious elder Mawlawi Yahya spoke Women’s’ Roundtable gathering. develop some strong business ideas and of the meaning of the word Taliban, The participants varied in age from come up with a business plan in order which refers to a student. 15 to 50, and covered a range of pro- to make this micro-financing plan work. “These guys are not students of Islam. fessions: Provincial Council members; The fact that PRT Farah has a fe- They are killers and murderers,” he said. teachers; journalists; administrators; wo- male interpreter was greatly appreciated, “This is not the Muslim way of living.” He mens’ rights activists. There was even as it allowed for a female-only discus- called for people to welcome the efforts a female interpreter, and an Afghan sion group. of the international community to help National Army guard. “During this meeting, women’s rights Afghanistan rebuild. Outwardly the women appeared very issues were discussed, and the PRT “This is Afghanistan’s chance, and the different. Some wore the uniform of showed that they are paying attention to Taliban are trying to stop it,” he said. the Army or Navy. Some women. Today we have a female trans- Returning from Delaram, the group wore stylish business-suits. Most were lating what we say to other women. It stopped at a village where two ANP draped in black. But despite the differ- is very important to see Afghan women soldiers, a doctor and the doctor’s son ences in appearance, the women came working here,” said Razia Hakimi, head had been murdered by the Taliban the together with some common goals – to of the organization Afghans Defending previous day. The governor, with the head make friends, enjoy a meal and work Womens’ Rights. of the Provincial Council at his side, held towards making Afghanistan a better Many women expressed appreciation an impromptu shura for approximately place for women. at being asked for their input, instead of 50 people, speaking on the importance of Captain Amanda Breslin hosted the constantly seeking advice from the same improving security before reconstruction event. She led the women in a discus- department heads again and again. in the area can begin. sion of issues, such as child marriages, “In the past they have invited only “Even if we don’t reap a lot from the spousal abuse, bride burning and unem- two or three women to the PRT, but security shura, the mere fact of getting ployment. this time they asked the opinion of the governor out to the district to con- The possibility of introducing many women. I have an idea that if we nect with the people, accompanied by the small business loans to the women of continue these meetings, we will solve president of the Provincial Council, was Farah City occupied a large part of our problems,” said Jamila Faize, a prin- huge. It’s going to pay big dividends in the the agenda. A brainstorming session cipal at fourth district school. future,” said Hughlett. “I am optimistic suggested several possibilities for The meeting was such a success something good is going to come from home-based businesses, including mak- that the women decided to make it a this.” ing peanut butter, pasta and mulberry monthly event.

9 Afghan National Security Forces Comm check on IEDs

Cordon commanders for the exercise from the Afghan National Police (right) and Turkish Forces (left) in ISAF set up communication before the day’s first exercise. ANSF, ISAF defeat IEDs together Story by Technical Sgt. Jim Fisher and photos by by ISAF officials directing the event, was This process improved their capability Sgt. Ruud Mol designed to increase cooperation and to work together, and led to sharing the KABUL, Afghanistan – The Interna- coordination between all friendly forces latest, most-effective information and pro- tional Security Assistance Force is working operating in Afghanistan, according to cedures, according to Lt. Peter Majewicz, more closely with Afghan National Secu- counter-IED officials. ”Cooperation and a member of the exercise IED detection rity Forces to defeat improvised explosive coordination save lives” was the theme for team. devices. Afghan soldiers, police and other the day-long event. “What I observed here was a lot of government security forces joined ISAF “We are all here for one reason only: different organizations coming together May 26 in IED exercises at a base in the to save people’s lives. This is all about the and communicating,” he said. “And they capital. preservation of life,” said an ISAF official all brought their own methodologies to The exercise, named New Freedom who is not named for security reasons, countering IEDs. Everyone wants the from the counter-IED department at same solution, but everybody has different ISAF Headquarters. methods. That’s the great thing about this He went on to explain that everyone exercise: we all get to observe each other involved was enthusiastic and commitment and we all get to learn.” to successful interaction. The lieutenant said learning will mean “The Afghan National Security Forces a more effective counter-IED force for were helpful and quite professional. Every- Afghanistan, a vital affect considering the one wants to improve; everyone wants to threat. get better at countering this threat.” “The final product is that we are going The teams, which included multi-fac- to be stronger in combating IEDs, which eted forces from different nations within are the number one threat to personnel ISAF and Afghan National Army, Police here,” Majewicz said. and other security forces, worked together ANSF members taking part also found on responding to a number of different the experience beneficial, according to IED scenarios. ANP member Lt. Colonel Sahid. By having IED and explosive ordnance “It was so good to take part in this disposal teams from ANSF and ISAF cooperative training. I was so excited to working the same scenario allowed each be a part of it,” Sahid said. “We challenge An ISAF EOD member uses ro- team to see how the others worked and with how to cordon off an area and to botic technology to view an IED. approached IED safeing and exploitation. continued next page 10 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 ANSF

Afghan National Security ForceS A EOD team member takes steps to destroy an IED in place after the threat to the public has been eliminated. cooperate with other teams as we were Giro, Qarabagh and Waghez. International doing this – especially the EOD teams. Security Assistance Forces are supporting We learned their steps and procedures ANP defeats the ANSF during the operation in Ghazni in depth.” Province. Technology used by some of the enemy force in Throughout the conduct of opera- ISAF forces was new, but techniques tions, ANSF will step up patrols in order were more important, the lieutenant to clear villages and districts of members colonel explained. Ghazni of the Taliban’s shadow government that “I have experience with IEDs, but attempts to use intimidation and fear to RC-East staff reports we’ve seen new techniques here and enforce its laws. FORWARD OPERATING BASE coordination methods,” Sahid said. SALERNO – Afghan National Police Throughout the day, participants officers quick response in the Kotai Sagee tackled a series of objectives, includ- ANP repel Village, Ander District, June 2 prevented ing improving inter-agency cooperation the destruction of a school and a check and coordination; exercising tactics, point. attack on ZK techniques and procedures; understand- An unknown insurgent force attacked ing roles and responsibilities; improv- a blocking position, a blockade setup to ing capabilities; and identifying future District Center deny freedom of movement for enemies challenges. All were met, according to of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, RC-East staff reports exercise officials. and more than 30 officers mobilized to the – Afghan This is important, considering the area to defeat the insurgent force. National Police repelled an attack on ability of IEDs to destroy lives and “The enemy attempted to attack our the Zana Kahn District Centre, Ghazni disrupt security in Afghanistan. IEDs forces at a checkpoint located across from Province, late last night and into the early placed by Taliban extremists have a school. It appears to be a small group morning hours. claimed more than 200 lives so far in of insurgents who fired rockets and small The Provincial Coordination Centre 2007, including the lives of more than arms fire at the police,” said Muhammad reported seeing 120 Taliban armed with 70 innocent civilians. More than 280 Af- Naiyz Razmahammed Wardak, deputy small arms fire and rocket-propelled ghans have been wounded by the blasts. commander of the ANP in Eastern Af- grenades at approximately 8:45 p.m. May While more than 200 attacks have been ghanistan. “We were quickly able to move 27. A Quick Reaction Force was sent to prevented, ISAF and ANSF are looking additional police to the location and the the location, where they joined forces with to improve their rate of thwarting IED cowards were forced to retreat.” six ANP vehicles. The extremists fled the attacks. The increased ANP and Afghan Na- district centre less than three hours later. Editor’s note: for security reasons, several tional Army presence is part of Operation One ANP officer was killed in the at- of the sources and photo subjects were not Maiwand, an effort to separate the Taliban tack. There are no other reports of injuries named in this story. from the people in the districts of Ander, at this time. 11 Regional Command Capital MEDEVAC Sharing cultures training RC-C staff reports Camp Warehouse -- In May, Re- gion Command Capital organized three MEDEVAC exercises to improve opera- tional capability of all units and also to enhance current operating procedures. Theses improvement are aimed at reduc- ing the time it takes for MEDEVAC units to reach, treat and transport patients. Each Battle Group within the Capi- tal region, including Italian, Turkish and French units, received training during these exercises, in their own areas of operation. Members of multiple nations from RC-Capital participate in tradi- Each exercise had a similar setup: tional Bulgarian folk dancing during a recent multi-national recep- during a patrol, an IED strike caused two tion held at Camp Warehouse. More than 200 people participated injuries requiring the move of a quick in the cultural exchange, featuring cultural exhibitions from Bul- reaction force to secure the spot and facili- garia, Croatia, France, Italy and Turkey. tate an air MEDEVAC. Another main focus of the exercises also have to provide information that you Erdem for the provisions of a safe place was multinational cooperation. Each ex- learn to other people surrounding you.” to conduct education.” ercise mobilized about 50 passengers and After the speeches, the CIMIC team from two to four helicopters. handed out 25 teacher kits comprised of Teachers Day stationary and radios to the teachers. Sports day RC-Capital staff reports Camp Warehouse -- Since the May 24 Police training RC-Capital staff reports is celebrated as Teachers’ Day in Afghani- Camp Warehouse -- Kabul University stan, the Turkish Civil Military Coopera- hosted Commander of Regional Com- tion Team organized an a celebration of graduation mand-Capital Brig. Gen. Kasım Erdem this special day for the teachers who work for the May 19 Commemoration of the in Shinah Girl High School in Bagrami. RC-Capital staff reports Ataturk Youth and Sports Fest, which is Commander of Regional Command- KABUL –Camp Dogan hosted a group celebrated every year in Turkey. This day Capital Brigadier General Kasım Erdem of policemen for training courses recently, is dedicated to Youth in order to empha- and other officials joined Lailuba Gadahi, including road control point establish- size the significance of their shouldering head of the teachers, to honour 25 teach- ment, road blocking, vehicle and personnel burdens related to the country’s future and ers in attendance. searching, intervention in social incidents to stress the importance of sports’ role in In his opening speech, Erdem empha- and police equipment. improving human relations, social life and sized the importance of the education in a A ceremony then took place after the body system. secure and stable environment. police group finished the course success- Exploiting every opportunity to meet “Teachers have very critical responsi- fully with the attendance of Regional public and Afghan youth, Erdem also at- bilities and duties for the development of Command-Capital G3 Chief Colonel tended this festival at the university. the country as the shape-giving hands to Hasan Usyılmaz. “You, teachers, doctors, engineers, the future’s engineers, doctors, teachers, After Usyılmaz congratulated the economists, and scientists of the future: leaders – the country’s prosperity,” Erdem attendees, PD 1 Police Chief Col. Abdur- all together side by side, hand in hand, you said. rahman Rahimi complemented the group are going to build new, modern, prosper- Then director of the school, Dilala and the training program. ous Afghanistan,” Erdem said. “Dear Safi, expressed her joy and thanks to the “This training will be very useful for students, this is a really big and important organizers. our policemen in dealing with stabilizing responsibility for you. So you have to “I’m very happy to see the ISAF units the area and provision of secure environ- improve yourself with modern knowledge beside us on this very important day and ment. Thanks to the Turkish Battle Group and continually develop your skills and you want to express my gratitude to General for creating this opportunity for us.”

12 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 Regional Command North PRT donates Going visiting blood to save woman HQ ISAF staff reports MEYMANEH – In cooperation with a local hospital, members of ISAF’s Pro- vincial Reconstruction Team Meymaneh donated blood June 17 to save the life of an Afghan woman. A mother’s life was in danger at a local hospital, according to a PRT Meymaneh official. She suffered severe blood loss during a complicated Caesarean section, the official added. The child had already been lost. Hospital officials called the PRT medi- cal staff for assistance. In response, an anaesthetist doctor and an anaesthetist nurse from the PRT surgical team hurried to the hospital to assist. Meanwhile, mem- bers of the PRT Meymaneh medical team A patrol from Camp Marmal in RC-North ventures out into neigh- called upon PRT soldiers with the right bouring villages to discuss reconstruction and development with blood type to donate blood. local maliqs. Topics for this visit, which occurred in May, included PRT Meymaneh maintains a “living aircraft noise and plans to improve a local school. Photo by Sgt. Ruud Mol blood bank” that lists the blood types of all PRT soldiers, said Lt. Elli Flén, PRT spokesperson. The system identified five local authorities and non-governmental donors who provided two-and-a-half organizations in renovating the Meymaneh PRT Meymaneh bags of blood that the doctors gave to the Hospital. It’s the main hospital in Faryab woman. province providing care to more than 1 The PRT medical team visited the million people. gets new patient today, and found her still weak but The Norwegian government funded getting better, Flén said. the construction of the buildings. The new commander The blood bank is normally intended buildings include laundry, kitchen and din- for the PRT’s soldiers, but the doctors at ing hall, guard room, drug treatment cen- RC North staff reports the hospital know the PRT will help in tre, two washroom and toilet facilities for MEYMANEH – Norwegian Lt. Col. life-threatening emergencies, Flén said. men and women, waste-burning station, Jørn Erik Berntsen assumed command of The official said the bank has provided morgue and a female guest room building. ISAF’s Provincial Reconstruction Team blood on three occasions to the local hos- “A basic right for all citizens is good Meymaneh in June 12. pital in the year it’s been operating. health care and health care is a responsibil- Berntsen replaced Lt. Colonel Arne ity of the provincial authorities,” said Lt. Opperud, who returned to Norway. Col. Jørn Erik Berntsen, PRT Meymaneh “Like our predecessors, we will assist commander. “Related to this, the PRT and support the people of Faryab in the PRT buildings wants to support the provincial govern- areas of security, governance and develop- ment in its work for better health in ment,” said Berntsen at the change-of- Faryab.” command ceremony at PRT Meymaneh go to hospital PRT Meymaneh has not only put an ef- city camp on Tuesday morning. fort in renovating buildings at the hospital Berntsen also said PRT personnel will HQ ISAF staff reports but also building the hospital’s ability to continue with the mission there, ever MEYMANEH – ISAF’s Provincial treat patients. PRT Meymaneh’s Norwe- mindful of respecting Afghan culture and Reconstruction Team Meymaneh handed gian medical personnel regularly meet and history. over several new buildings to officials consult with the staff at the Meymaneh PRT Meymaneh has peace keepers from a hospital here June 16. hospital. from Norway, Finland and Latvia. PRT Meymaneh soldiers supported the

13

Regional Command South NAMSA improves KAF quality of life

Story by Sgt. LeeAnn Lloyd and photos by Capt. Vanessa Bowman 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment AIR FIELD -- When assuming responsibility of a multi-national installation, there are many factors that come in to play. What is the best way to keep all nations happy? The best way to sustain operations logistically in a manner Colonel R. Stephen Williams, installation commander of Kandahar agreeable for all involved? What is the best Air Field, and Major General Karl-Heinz Muenzner, NATO Mainte- way to define the commonalities among all nance and Supply Agency general manager, sign a joint memoran- dum of understanding as part of the official transition of NATO’s the unique cultural and national interests? Kandahar Airfield from U.S. management to NATO May 15. NATO decided to bring in a middle man to help them take on this responsibil- DFAC that same day for dinner and have “At the soldier level, on the day-to-day, ity; a voice that can represent each nation American food, or British-style food. This what we hope to obtain is a seamless tran- and find the common ground that lays way, we can basically allow for more of a sition. That is, you still eat, you still sleep, hidden amongst the different languages choice. We really hope that translates into you still do everything that you would and requests. That conduit, known as the an improved quality of life for the people normally do; it’s just that the providers will NATO Maintenance and Supply Agency, here,” Hays said. be different,” Hays said. will officially manage the installation July The cost of this new quality of life will Other services that will fall under 31, when command and control of Kan- not become the financial responsibility of NAMSA’s scope include mortuary serv- dahar Air Field transfers from the U.S. to the lead nation alone, Hays said. The four ices, translation services, vehicle rentals, NATO. big players at KAF--the U.S., , the and Morale, and Welfare and Recreation “NAMSA has basically been tasked to , and the - projects, among many others, Hansen said. run a small city. We are putting into place -will work on a sort of ‘pay-as-you-go’ NAMSA also plans to put new towers on right now the contracts; much as the U.S. system with a 30-day billing cycle; there the air field, as well as possibly paving the out-sourced much of their logistic support will also be an account to allocate funds main roadways to help reduce dust. during the 80’s and the 90’s. NATO is now for projects that benefit everyone, said An- An important thing about NAMSA is taking that as the way ahead,” said Susan dre Hansen, section chief with NAMSA’s that they are not a contractor, Hansen said. Hays, NAMSA principal procurement of- Logistics Support Office. “We are all NATO civilian staff who are ficer at KAF. “The changes you will see on KAF are working under an actual agreement; we are As with any transition of leadership, the direct result of these nations defining all employees of NATO,” he noted. change is never far behind and KAF is no their requirements,” Hansen said. “We also have the background for this exception to the rule. NAMSA’s goal is In order to keep track of billing and kind of work,” Hays added. “Most of us to raise the standard of the quality of life the financial aspects of services provided, are military, or we’ve been civilians sup- at the airfield, starting with the improve- NAMSA is taking the electronic route. porting our military. There’s a lot of expe- ments of services soldiers hold very dear What this means is service members will rience here, so we understand that there’s -- dining and laundry facilities. be responsible for an individual swipe a certain vocabulary that the individual “In the KBR environment, each of card. This card will serve as their ‘key’ to nations bring to the table.” the DFACs basically serve the same meals the new dining and laundry facilities, Hays In the end, the mission is to implement each day. In our food services contract, said. The cards will also help NAMSA projects that will make each of the nations first of all, it’s preparation from fresh, so track what to bill to each nation. happy, as well as making sure the Soldiers we’re not reheating food; secondly, each “There’s going to be a certain learn- fighting the good fight are taken care of of the DFACs will offer a different style ing curve for the boots on the ground without financially and logistically tying of food, hopefully across of those sort here, because this isn’t something that has the hands of those nations involved. of ‘cuisine requirements’ of each of the been done here before,” Hays said. But “This is not, and never could have nations,” Hays said. she hopes patience, coupled with an open been, conceived as a single nation’s What that means, Hays said, is that mind, will help the process run smoother. responsibility,” Hays said. “I think, long options will exist. “You could go to one Soldiers should expect to see these cards term, what it demonstrates is the capability DFAC one day and have Mediterra- from their commanders around the end of that nations have, that they are stronger nean food, and you could go to another May or early June. together than they are individually.” 14 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 RC(S) Delivering the goods VICTORY FOR FARMERS RC-South staff reports – International Security As- sistance Force troops have safeguarded the livelihood of thousands of Afghan farmers with urgent reconstruction work while in the middle of a major operation to clear the Taliban out of the Sangin Val- ley. During the offensive to clear the Sangin Valley of Taliban fighters, code- named Operation Lastay Kulang , troops from the 1st Battalion The Royal An- glian Regiment and 26 Engineer Regi- ment found themselves digging irrigation ditches to prevent the crops, needed to sustain hundreds of villages, from drying up and decaying in the fields of South- ern Afghanistan. The use of a mechani- cal digger meant that the simple task was Members of the Royal Air Force 51 Squadron, who serve on the completed in hours rather than the days Force Protection Team at Kandahar Airfield, distribute humanitarian it would have taken the villagers. aid items provided by 207th Infantry Brigade to nomadic Kuchis in The urgent need of the villagers was May 16. Photo by Capt. Vanessa R. Bowman established June 2 by a routine Anglian patrol led by Company Commander Ma- jor Dominic Biddick. When the Taliban RAF provides aid to nomadic extremists’ were driven out of the area, the situation was deemed safe enough to bring up the heavy machinery. Kuchis in Kandahar “We are entering the main phase of RC-South staff reports 150 tons of goods have been delivered, in- Operation Kulang. What we are here KANDAHAR – Members of 51 Squad- cluding 600 radios, 600 pairs of boots and for is to deliver a positive legacy to these ron, Royal Air Force Regiment, part of the 47,500 kilograms of rice, flour and beans. people and try to make their lives better. Force Protection element at Kandahar Air- Six deep wells and two karezes were also We’ve cleared the Taliban throughout the field, recently distributed humanitarian aid constructed, which increased water quan- Upper Sangin Valley, between Sangin and provided by the 207th Infantry Brigade to tity and quality for agricultural and drink- Kajaki and now we are delivering some nomadic Kuchis camps in Kandahar prov- ing use at a cost of $105,000. The projects tangible output,” Biddick said. ince. benefited an estimated 40,000 residents in The irrigation ditch feeds about 24 The RAF Force Protection service mem- the Daman district and provided employ- square kilometres of ground to the south bers unloaded two trucks of humanitarian ment for over 300 people. here. About 5,000 families are going to get an improved water supply to their aid goods including rugs, rice and beans, RAF aid to Kuchis basic farm supplies, clothing and school crops, which would otherwise have failed supplies at two local Kuchis camps. in the next 10-14 days. The RAF has been making regu- “We do this every two weeks or so, it The ISAF operation, from the helps when on patrol because they remem- lar humanitarian visits to the word for pickaxe handle, conducted at the ber this,” said RAF Flying Officer Kev Kuchis: request of the Government of the Islam- O’Brian. “We send patrols out to find areas n Aid includes, rugs, rice, beans, ic Republic of Afghanistan, is building on of need. We help those in need by making farm supplies, clothing and school the achievements of the recently com- a list of things to improve like water, food supplies pleted in the Sangin and medical,” he added. n In all, more than 20 CIMIC mis- Valley in support of Afghan National Se- There have been more than 20 civil sions in the area over the last six curity Forces. military cooperation missions in the past months provided $100,000 worth A total of 2000 ISAF and ANSF per- six months providing over $100,000 of hu- sonnel are taking part in the operation, of aid. manitarian aid to the local populace. Over 1,000 of those being British forces. 15 RC(S) Australian, Afghan engineers deliver ‘magical’ effect Talani School transformed by RT projects

Story and photos by Lt. Kieran Jackel Australian Forces A recent project completed by the Reconstruction Task Force in saw Australian engineers work- ing hand in hand with soldiers from the Afghan National Army. The project was a result of ongoing liaison between the RTF and key members within the village of Talani, specifically the school principal and the village maliq. One of the main concerns raised by the principal was the poor state of the win- Australian and Afghan Army engineers adjust an auger during work dows; most of which were broken and had at the Talani School. chards protruding from the frames. It was also identified that the students, at times setting. All equipment was designed, built up to 400, had no chairs or desks at which and installed by the Australian and Afghan to work in their class rooms. engineers, and now provides the children The engineers’ work, described as with a safe area to play outside. ‘magical’ by the principal, drove a a rapid Engineer Troop Commander, Lieuten- restoration of the school grounds, which ant Kieran Jackel, said it was extremely had been neglected for many years rewarding work and noted the how small The projects, which were all completed things can make big differences in this part in 10 hours, included the removal of of the world. more than 50 broken windows and the “The project was an example of how installation of Perspex inserts - which some simple reconstruction work can pro- are stronger and provide protection from vide a lasting impact on the community. rain and extreme dust storms that occur Ideally it will encourage more students frequently during summers in southern to attend school now there is a safe and Afghanistan.. enjoyable environment to learn in,” Jackel The engineers also installed a 4,000-le- said. tre water tank with multiple taps, provid- Jackel was also pleased with the support ing the students with an area to wash their provided by the ANA engineers and said hands throughout the day and a source for future missions will continue to develop clean drinking water. their confidence in the community. Responding to the school’s need for “We have been developing their skills furniture, a number of desks, chairs and back in Tarin Kowt for some time now bookshelves were installed. In a move – they have made great progress,” he said. highly symbolic of the overall effort in “It was a valuable opportunity to get them Afghanistan, the furniture was produced out into the community and demonstrate by local students of the Australian-run how the ANA works with ISAF, not for Trade Training School–emphasising self them.” sufficiency within the community. Given the success of this last mission, One of the simplest tasks conducted, it is highly likely that future missions con- but by far the most popular given the ducted by the RTF and the ANA engi- children’s expressions when let loose on neers will yield similarly positive results for them, was the installation of play equip- the communities here and all of Uruzgan Talani School children play on ment in the school yards. A swing set, province. equipment built by ISAF and seesaw, monkey bars and outdoor table ANA engineers. 16 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 RC(S) International team keeps vital cargo flowing RC-South staff reports Lawr Malazay – Differences in lan- guage and culture have proved to be no barrier to a joint Romanian and U.S. team keeping vital supplies pouring into an ISAF base in . Ch-47s prepare to launch The team runs the “pick up zone” at from Qalat. A sling load Forward Operating Base LAGMAN, where operations is in progress. they oversee the loading and off-loading of Photo by Catalin Ovreiu supplies and people arriving via helicop- ters. Chinooks, Blackhawks, Apaches or even MI-8s Where different nationalities work The team’s determination and hard- – occupy the landing zone, and the work is done together, some challenges must be work has earned them the admiration and under severe time constraints. Time is critically overcome to make it all happen. For appreciation of allied helicopter crews, ac- important as all remote FOBs depend on resup- the Romanians this meant learning cording to Air Planning Officer Capt. Al- ply from the air. the specific English terminology for exandru Kis. “We get satisfaction when we succeed in all the terms that apply to this line of “The job of Air Planning Officer was sending anything, whether it be water, food, am- work, Kis explained. Now, while Ro- pretty unusual for me, being trained as an munition, or personnel to the desired destina- manian–English dictionaries are gath- infantryman. But after five months of con- tion,” Kis said. ering dust on a shelf, they can focus on stant air traffic and working closely togeth- The most spectacular operations are the sling complementing each other as a team. er with my U.S. counterpart 1st Lieutenant loads, used for the transportation of fuel blis- This can sometimes be hard work, Keith Wei, it has more or less become rou- ters, special containers or other assets. Special- especially when mechanical assets get tine,” Kis said. ist U.S. personnel normally oversee these loads, broken and the repair tasks must be The team is organizing its schedule dur- rigging them with special chains and ropes to accomplished through intensive physi- ing daylight or night, in accordance with the a Chinook helicopter while it hovers over the cal work. At the end of the day team- flying schedule. There are situations when load. The Chinook then flies off with the load, work is the key to success, he added. up to ten helicopters, of different sorts – dangling from underneath, to its destination. ISAF, ANSF open new police checkpoint in Uruzgan RC-South staff reports the ANA engineers whom they train at their base area, which is his number one priority, Uruzgan – A new ISAF-built po- in Tarin Kowt worked hand in hand to complete would be greatly improved. lice checkpoint in Uruzgan province was the sizable task in as little as four days. Quickly established, high impact opened on June 2, significantly increasing The checkpoint will immediately be manned projects such as the ANP checkpoint security for local residents and further con- by local ANP led by Commander Hanif. The are becoming a feature of the RTF’s solidating Afghan National Security Forces position includes strategically sited strong points achievements. influence in the area. that look over the valley approaches and incor- The Australian RTF commander, Officials from the Government of Af- porate significant force protection measures. Lt. Colonel Harry Jarvie, says they ghanistan and ISAF held an opening cer- The ANP officers will also enjoy new sleeping complement the larger, more detailed emony at the site near Gulkanah, signalling and living quarters including a wood fire for construction projects which the Task the importance that projects such as these cooking and heating. Force conducts throughout the Tarin hold for the future of the region. Hanif says he is now able to do his job 100 Kowt area. More importantly, he said, Uruzgan’s Governor, Abdul Hakim percent better. they also provide opportunities for the Monib thanked ISAF for the checkpoint “Usually we stay under a tent and have no developing ANA engineers to make a and said that their “hard work and kindness services, but this is great – accommodation, name for themselves in the commu- will always stay in Afghan minds”. cooking, and heating; we are safer and more nity. The checkpoint, which has a command- comfortable.” Hanif said. “The Project has been a giant step ing presence over the surrounding area, Uruzgan Chief of Police, General Quasim, forward for the area and is an excellent was the result of a joint ISAF-ANA project travelled with Governor Monib for the check- example of the healthy partnership conducted last week. Engineers from the point opening. He noted the excellent siting of that ANSF and ISAF enjoy.” Jarvie Australian Reconstruction Task Force and the position and said that the security in the said. 17 Regional Command East ISAF docs provide aid for long term

Story by Sgt. Jim Wilt RC-East Public Information Office MIRI DISTRICT – Patient after patient filled through the gate at the hospital wait- ing to be checked by the ISAF doctors, a rare opportunity for the people here. While military doctors were at the hos- pital to aid the people of the tiny village, the doctors weren’t thinking short term. Although they can’t remain at the hospital, their knowledge and experience can. A team of International Security Assist- ance Force medical and veterinary doctors Dr. Habib, the Miri Hospital surgeon and Captain Darren Sommer, conducted a medical engagement here in discuss the results of a patient’s sonogram during a medical en- June 3-5 with the goal of gagement. leaving a lasting mark. Most of the time, the test could be done in Khowst, a town doctors faced a variety of injuries and when teams of doctors go out to villages in the province of the same name, just illnesses. Not all of the problems seen by to help the people with their ailments and north of Ghazni. The patient agreed to the doctors can easily be fixed by Habib or injuries, they do just that. They provide go. one of the ISAF doctors. expert care and medications to the people When medication was prescribed for a One man came into the hospital and on a short-term basis. chronic problem, the question was could was examined by the Ghazni Provisional The ISAF team went to Miri with a it be obtained for the long term. If it Reconstruction Team’s medical officer, different purpose, to better prepare local was easily found at the pharmacy in the Navy Lt. Keith Hoekman. As the man de- doctors to provide better care. bazaar, Habib would prescribe it, if not; scribed his problem, Hoekman diagnosed “What I don’t want is for patients to the two docs would look at other options. the illness. Hoekman believes the man was come in and see American doctors and A key part of Sommer’s long-term plan he suffering from post-traumatic stress dis- not want to work with their own doctors,” relayed to Habib was patient education. order. PTSD is a common ailment among said Captain Darren Sommer, the battalion “An important part of my patient the military and for those who go through surgeon for the 782nd Brigade Support practice is educating them on the disease,” a sever trauma. Battalion. he said. The patient, Masamjam, related his tale While there to provide medical aid to He gave Habib a few tips on patient to the people in the room. Masamjam said anyone who needed it, Sommer and the education such as using drawings and he is one of 12 brothers. He is also the rest of his team decided to provide aid by explaining the cause of the ailment to the only brother not to join the Taliban. After working with the hospital staff. Through- person. Even though Sommer was in the asking his brothers not to use his house out the day, Sommer’s aid came in a series mentor position, the exchange of informa- for extremists’ purposes, he was taught a of questions. tion between the two doctors went both lesson. His house, along with his children “So what should we do,” he would ask ways. and possessions, were taken from him. Dr. Habib, the hospital surgeon, once the “I learned today probably as much as He also was beaten. After having his ribs patient related his ails. Dr. Habib,” Sommer said. broken by his relatives, he fled. He said he Soon after, a discussion would ensue. Sommer’s mentoring isn’t a sign of is currently hiding from the Taliban, and Both doctors would name possible prob- incompetence in the Afghan doctor, far his family, in Miri. lems and possible cures; often they would from it. Halfway through the day, Habib Hoekman did what he could for the name the same ones. But the questions had to step out to perform minor surgery. man. He prescribed him medicine and didn’t stop there. Sommer is concerned Walikhan, a young boy, fell and landed on listened. The doctors can only help at with the long term. a blanket with a sewing needle in it. The the clinic for a few days. There are other “Can you do a [test] here,” he asked needle lodged in his arm. Working with an people who need their aid. By sharing their Habib after he suspected a man had a assistant named Haqdad, Habib removed experience with the doctors at Miri Hospi- thyroid gland problem. the needle in a matter of minutes. tal, they hope their short-term aid will end Habib’s answer was “no”. The word Other surgeries Habib preformed in a long-term solution. “no” led only to more questions. Sommer included amputations and partial colon wasn’t content until the doctors resolved removal. Throughout the day the two 18 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 RC(E) PRT works to repair Band-e-Sultan Story by Army Sgt. Matthew Clifton discussed security of the site while making 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment an assessment of the dam’s condition. GHAZNI PROVINCE – Although “We’re here to look at the spots in the many operations in Afghanistan are fo- dam that need to be patched and to see if cused on eliminating the Taliban, there are there is need for any large-scale construc- other ISAF development missions aimed tion,” Orchard said. “We also want to talk at rebuilding and restoring the country. to the local police to see what security is One such mission is the repairing of like around the dam.” the Band-e-Sultan Dam in the Ghazni When asked about security, Karim province of Afghanistan. pointed to a plaque mounted on the face The Sultan Dam, as it is commonly of the dam that had been repeatedly shot. known, is the oldest and largest water “The Taliban drive up on motorcycles reservoir in Afghanistan. The dam dates and shoot at the dam,” Karim said. “We back to the 11th century when it was built have police positioned on the mountains under the reign of its namesake Sultan above to protect the area.” Mahmood Ghaznavi. Orchard surveyed the base of the dam The Danish Committee for Afghan Aid where areas of the wall had started to leak. to Refugees, a non-government organiza- Karim led him down a winding dirt path tion dedicated to supplying aid to Afghans where Orchard was shown numerous areas Water can be seen leaking through water and sanitation projects, where tiny streams of water had broken through cracks in the Band-e- worked extensively repairing the Sultan through the rock and mortar. Sultan Dam, in Ghazni Province, Dam from May 2000 to July 2002. “I’ll need to take a sample of the mor- Afghanistan. An extremely heavy accumulation of tar used back to the PRT,” Orchard said Photo by Sgt. Matthew Clifton snow caused the dam to collapse in 2005. while kneeling down and placing a broken Although the Ghazni Provincial Govern- piece of cement into his cargo pocket. persed,” he said. “That way we won’t have ment has worked to maintain the dam, “We’ll analyze this to see how good the to make so many repairs and maintenance ISAF’s Ghazni Provincial Reconstruction quality is.” would be easier.” Team is set to work with the provincial One idea Orchard had was to build With the irrigation of the dam provid- government to refurbish the dam. several smaller dams to relieve the massive ing water to over 12,000 families through- Lt. Colonel Larry Orchard , the Ghazni amount of pressure the water brings upon out Afghanistan, the Ghazni PRT, along PRT civil affairs officer, recently visited the now-standing structure. with ISAF, is committed to ensuring the the dam to meet with Afghan National “The idea is that with several dams in supply of water to these families will con- Police commander Abdul Karim. The two place, the water pressure will be dis- tinue to flow.

Bambakot govt. flourishes with ISAF aid Story and photos by Specialist Jon H. Arguello and the sub-governor,” said Master Sgt. their trust towards the government. That FORWARD OPERATING BASE Dean Miller, the PRT’s Informa- is the real success.” FENTY – A long U.S. military convoy re- tion Officer. “It really exemplifies what Strengthening the government and cently rumbled into the Dari Noor District we are trying to do here which is help establishing it as a credible resource for its kicking up a trail of dust and delivering a stand up the government so it can support people is one of the PRT’s missions, ex- truck full of humanitarian assistance sup- itself.” plained Captain Tony Noce, a civil affairs plies to one of its more remote villages. It was the sub-governor who proactive- officer with the Jalalabad PRT. The event was a sign of governmental ly made an assessment of the needs of the “Our mission is only successful if it progress, dedication and cooperation villages in his district and who placed the strengthens the Afghan government,” said among Dari Noor’s leadership. highest need on the village of Bambakot, Noce. “If a project was an Afghan idea, The civil assistance package brought said Miller. and executed with an Afghan lead – it was food, cooking oil, school supplies and en- The proactive approach by Sub-gov- a great success. It means local govern- couragement to the people of Bambakot. ernor Ahaji Halim Shah is exactly what ment officials and citizens made some- It also demonstrated how the sub-gover- the PRT in Jalalabad was hoping to see thing happen and the PRT was a conduit nor of Dari Noor and Bambakot’s village develop, Miller explained. to that success.” elder have made the needs of their people “We want people to go to the govern- More of these kinds of operations are a priority in their cooperative effort to ment,” said Miller. “People used to come on the way. As the area’s effective gov- bring security, stability and progress. to the PRT and express their needs. Now ernment continues and develops, it will “This was really a success because it they go to the government and that shows continue to receive support, Noce said. was all coordinated by the village elders progress and that the people are shifting

19 RC(E) Transfer of Authority

U.S. and Polish troops render a salute during the transfer of authority June 1 of the new Polish Battle group within Task Force Fury. Both nations are integrated under ISAF in Regional Command-East’s Uruzgan province. The TOA gave Polish troops command of the Battle Group, which contains troops from both nations. recently increased it’s contribution and contingent to 1,400 troops.

Taliban direct mortars to hospital treating Afghans RC-East staff reports A. Korpi, spokesman for ISAF forces sup- ANSF from providing security and peace GHAZNI PROVINCE – Taliban porting Operation Maiwand. to the people. operatives fired numerous mortar rounds “Their [the Taliban’s] actions against “During the past several days, the near a hospital in Miri district around the people only continue to separate them Afghan National Security Forces have cap- 10:30 June 10. The insurgents targeted and show how desperate they are,” added tured several Taliban leaders, destroyed nu- security positions during a medical assist- Korpi. merous weapon caches and destroyed five ance operation being conducted by Afghan Operation Maiwand is an Afghan roadside bombs in place without injury,” doctors for the people of Miri. National Security Forces led operation to said ANA Col. Yar Mohammad Sayedi, The medical outreach program had just separate the Taliban from the local popula- 203rd Corps operations officer. begun when the indirect fire started. Sol- tion. ISAF personnel participating in “This operation has begun with great diers from the 4th Khandak, 203rd Afghan Maiwand are in a support role to the ANA success thanks to the people of Ghazni, National Army Corps and International and Afghan National Police, and other the ANSF, and our Coalition partners. Security Assistance Forces were providing security forces. The local government, police and military security for the doctors and Afghan people “The major focus of ISAF support are connecting to the people and will stand seeking treatment as part of Operation during this operation is one of humanitar- behind all those who oppose the criminals Maiwand. ian, medical and logistical support,” said and murders,” said Sayedi, referring to the “Despite warnings from the Taliban not Korpi. Taliban and insurgent fighters. to assist or take aid from the government During the last two days, there have There were no reports of any injuries or ISAF, hundreds of Afghans have come been several indirect fire attacks against to Afghans, ANSF or ISAF personnel to the medical clinics and to the district security forces as they move to secure from today’s mortar. centres to receive aid,” said Major Donald Ghazni province. It has not deterred the 20 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 RC(E) Op Maiwand ANSF, ISAF Village elders defeat Taliban finds weapons banish Taliban RC-East staff reports in Ghazni KHOWST – Afghan National Army RC-East staff reports Soldiers in Ghazni province detained one GHAZNI PROVINCE – Elders from RC-East staff reports individual and seized an AK-47, a PKM the small village of Gaweshak, in the FORWARD OPERATING BASE machine gun, a grenade and bayonet near Qarabagh district announced June 6 they SALERNO–Five insurgents were detained Sultan Bak around 5:30 p.m. local time have decided they will no longer supply or recently in Qarabagh District, Ghazni June 3. provide safe houses for insurgent fighters province after contact with ISAF forces in During a routine vehicle search as part after years of oppression, physical abuse, the area. of Operation Maiwand in , murder and beheadings at the hands of The five wounded insurgents were the Afghan soldiers arrested one male the Taliban. taken into custody during an investigation after discovering the weapons hidden in The villagers have decided to stand of an area where Afghan National Security his vehicle. their ground and cut off all support and Forces, along with ISAF, killed a signifi- The Afghan National Police advised supplies to the insurgents, despite the cant number of enemy personnel. the citizens of Ghazni province not to threat of Taliban fighters operating only Four of the enemy wounded were med- transport weapons in their vehicles with- five kilometres (3.1 miles) away in nearby ically evacuated to ISAF medical centers out obtaining proper permission from the mountains. for treatment. government. Taliban and other insurgents in the Tribal elders have reported that there Operation Maiwand continues as the Ghazni area have fled to the mountains were no civilian deaths. Combined Task Force of Afghan and from villages that historically provided International Security Assistance Forces safety and shelter due to the increased attempt to separate the Taliban and other pressure of Operation Maiwand, a joint criminals from the people of Ghazni. effort by Afghan National Security Forces One Afghan in- Operation Maiwand is named after and their ISAF counterparts. The enemies the 1880 Battle of Maiwand in Kandahar, of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan jured as ISAF which was one of the largest battles of government are finding sanctuaries more the Second Anglo-Afghan War. The battle, difficult to come by as more villages and ended in serious defeat for the British in districts turn to their elected governments base rocketed 1880, but was also very costly to Afghans for services and other forms of basic as- losing more than 7,000 Afghan warriors. sistance. RC-East staff reports Although villagers of Gaweshak have BAGRAM AIRFIELD – One Afghan expressed concerns for their safety and civilian was wounded when two rockets fear that their government may not be detonated near the perimeter of the base ANSF/ISAF able to provide long term security, they recently. realize that the alternative they have been Afghan National Police officers were under for the last several years only offers alerted to the location of five rockets repel attack oppression and death to any who op- through information provided by a villager. pose, said Afghan National Police officials RC-East staff reports The ANP arrived there after three of the located at the tactical operations centre in FORWARD OPERATING BASE five rockets had already been launched. Northeast Ghazni. SALERNO – Afghan National Security The ANP successfully disarmed the other “We will stand behind the good people Forces, along with a small group of ISAF two rockets, which were destroyed by ISAF of Ghazni until the last drop of blood has forces, repelled an attack on the Zerok explosive ordnance personnel. run out of every officer’s vein. We are checkpoint, Charabaran district, Paktika The Afghan, who was lightly wounded here as servants of the people and true province. by shrapnel, was taken to an ISAF medical followers of Islam,” said Abdul Nasir, di- More than 10 insurgents fired rocket facility here for evaluation and treatment. rector of operations for the ANP, Ghazni propelled grenades and other small arms “This is another case of extremists hurt- province. “The people of Gaweshak are fire on the checkpoint around 2:50 a.m. ing the people of Afghanistan,” said Major why we fight. If all the villages in Ghazni The joint force returned fire and the at- William Mitchell, a spokesman for Regional would take such a position, the enemies of tackers fled. Command - East. Afghanistan would flee in fear like dogs,” One ANSF and one ISAF service “The Taliban extremists continually hurt he added. member were injured in the attack and the Afghan people with their indiscriminate Operation Maiwand is expected to were evacuated to an ISAF base for medi- attacks.” continue in Ghazni province throughout cal treatment. the month of June. 21 Compass points Raising the cup Macedonians take HQ title

Story by Technical Sgt. Jim “Nigel” Fisher and photos by Sgt. Ruud Mol More than 400 people gathered around HQ ISAF’s five-a-side football pitch June 11 to watch two teams from the HQ battle for the cup in a final between and the Former Yugoslavian Republic of Macedonia. Large contingents of singing support- ers saw the Macedonians hoist the cup with a 4-1 victory. The team, made up of soldiers from the 2nd Mechanized Brigade from Ochrid, finished the season losing only two matches since league play began March 19. The Germans took second place in the competition, followed by the Dutch in third position and Polish in fourth. Each of the matches between the four teams competing for the title drew hun- dreds of spirited supports, according to league organizer Sgt. John De Graaf, who organized the competition back in March. Two leagues of five teams were set up (Above) FYROM players begin to celebrate after the final whistle. and play began with each team set to play (Above right) Macedonian goalie Alexander Jorjeski stops a German eight regular-season matches. Some teams shot as they come under pressure late in the second half. (Below were organized nationally, and some based right) The crowd of more than 400 surrounded the field, often do- on work centre composition. Major rep- ing a little climbing to find a good viewpoint. resentations came from France, Germany, five years, according to team captain Sgt. NATO comrades that the Macedonians Greece, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Macedonia, Elvis Todorovski. He said they played with could execute and perform at a high level. Poland, Romania and the U.S. One club, victory on their minds throughout the “I’m so happy, so joyful, because I feel CJOC FC, had players from more than six competition. we are representing how Macedonia can countries. “I am proud of the Macedonian team,” be a part of NATO and accomplish great The point of the competition was not Todorovski said. “We had a desire to win things,” Baleski said. to win a cup, but to build friendships, ac- and didn’t surrender even though we had Todorovski said he believed the team cording to De Graaf.. a lot of injuries. We don’t give up. This is represented the spirit of their country. “We wanted to do it for the guys to one special team.” “We are a small country. Almost no- have a good time,” he said. “A lot of peo- Midfielder Goran Baleski said they un- body knew us before we came here and we ple wanted to play, and now a lot of guys derstood from the beginning that the cup are showing the other countries that we know each other. We had a lot of fun, and was within reach. exist. Because we are a proud country and this is the most important thing for the “When we started play in the tourna- a proud people, we don’t fall down easily tournament to do.” ment, we expected to be in the finals. We and we don’t give up,” the captain said. For the boys from Ochrid, the tourna- didn’t underestimate the other teams, they Todorovski and his unit will soon be re- ment also gave them a chance to show the were also good, especially the Germans turning home at the end of their tour here. mettle behind the unit integral to securing and Italians,” Baleski said. “All games were He said he wished similar success for the the installation. Members of the 32nd are played with heart and a desire to win, and unit that replaces them, but had a greater charged with installation security and force I think we fought successfully and accom- wish for Afghan people. protection at HQ ISAF. plished our objective. Congratulations to “I want them to [have success] and to Back in FYROM, members of the unit the other teams.” do good, to let their kids grow up easily, had played football together for as long as Part of the objective was showing their not under this pressure,” Todorovski said. 22 ISAF MIRROR July 2007 CP

23 “These guys are not students of Islam. They are killers and mur- derers. This is not the Muslim way of living. This is Afghani- stan’s chance, and the Taliban are trying to stop it.” --Religious elder Mawlawi Yahya on the meaning of the word “Taliban”